Preventive CareLynnwood Dentist

Healthy smiles for healthy families start with professional family dentistry. At Aesthetic Restorative & Implant Dentistry Northwest, your bright, healthy smile is our top priority. Of course, you'll only smile if you're as happy with our service as you are with our dental treatment. That's why we take the time to listen to your needs and concerns. Not only do we listen to your concerns, but we use gentle, efficient cleaning techniques. We also hire caring, highly trained professionals. Our experienced team of specialists is invested in meeting all of your dental needs; from calming anxieties to teaching good habits, from regular check-ups to developing an oral health regimen.

An oral health care regimen is incomplete without flossing your teeth. Simply brushing your teeth is not enough. If you don’t floss, you are ignoring 40 percent of the tooth’s surface. You can’t reach that surface with a toothbrush or mouthwash. If you don’t floss, plaque accumulates in between the teeth, then hardens and becomes tartar. Tartar can only be removed with professional cleaning. So don’t wait. Start a routine and follow it!

How to Use Standard Floss

It is recommended that on average you floss once a day, and brush your teeth twice a day for a duration of two minutes. Keep in mind that it takes 24 hours for plaque to form so flossing once a day will prevent plaque buildup between the teeth. Studies show the best time to floss is in the evening, at least thirty minutes after you have eaten.

1.

Choose floss that is compatible with the spacing between your teeth.

2.

Remove about 18 to 24 inches of floss from the container.

3.

Wrap the floss around your index finger so that there is approximately 5 cm available for flossing. A common mistake is to use too much.

4.

Use a gentle rocking motion as you slide the floss between your teeth. Avoid being forceful. Do not snap it into place. Use your thumbs to help guide the floss with your upper teeth, and the middle fingers for your lower teeth.

5.

For best results curve the floss around your selected tooth in a c shape.

After you are done, wrap the previously used floss around one finger while unwinding fresh floss from the other.

8.

Repeat the process until you have cleaned all of your teeth.

Dental Plackers

Plackers are hand-held flossing devices. They are disposable, easy to use and only require one hand. They are especially good for individuals who struggle to reach the back of their mouth, have limited mobility or who have tight teeth.

The recommended technique for plackers is similar to that of standard floss. Slide the floss up and down. Remember to be gentle and go underneath the gums. Don’t rush, and don’t be forceful. The most common mistake people make with plackers is they go too quickly and are not as thorough.

If Your Gums Bleed

There are many reasons why your gums might bleed during your flossing. There may be an excess of plaque buildup, a vitamin deficiency or you may be suffering from periodontal disease. New medications, toothbrushes and flossing routines can also cause your gums to bleed.

If you notice bleeding, be sure to rinse your mouth with salt water or mouthwash to help prevent bacteria from spreading deeper into the gums. After you are finished, make sure to call us at (425) 697-9665 to schedule an appointment as there may be an underlying problem that will need to be addressed. It is always best to confront dental problems early and head on.

We are your dental home for comprehensive care in a nurturing environment.Call or click to make an appointment.